Category Development Manager

Are you an established Category Development Manager? Do you have experience of working within food manufacturing in a fast-paced environment? Want to join a company that is passionate about the planet, its people and their products…

Major Recruitment are seeking an experienced Category Development Manager to join their team based in Leicestershire. Our client's heritage was established over 40 years ago. Their commitment and dedication to delivering outstanding bakery products for foodservice providers, bakers and retailers in over 100 countries around the world.

Key Responsibilities of the Category Development Manager:

• Gain an understanding of the category market dynamics in terms of size, areas of growth, sector opportunities
• Carry out a gap analysis of ranges, price lists versus competitive set
• Utilise market data to support Category proposals
• Identify new product opportunities and present solutions e.g. menus, POS, concepts etc.
• Provide real added value for local customer base
• Attend meetings and support Commercial teams at customer presentations to drive new listings
• Provide NPD brief and liaise with relevant Group factories from product development through to launch planning
• Interpret customer briefs and communicate internally to include key commercial guidelines and ensure factory adheres to them
• Provide key point of liaison with customer at each gate presentation ensuring all customer brand requirements and timelines are met
• Liaise with other relevant Commercial teams for customer/launch admin
• Compliance with Company policies and procedures

Skills required to be a Category Development Manager:

• Creative and analytical
• Full commercial awareness
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Good understanding of the UK grocery market
• Excellent organisational skills.
• Able to work on own initiative
• French speaking - desirable

What's in for you?

• Salary circa £45k
• Bonus potential up to 5%
• 37.5 hrs Hybrid
• Individual Healthcare - Bupa
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic and innovative company
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Professional development opportunities to advance your career
• Access to cutting-edge technology and system

Major Recruitment are an employment agency working on behalf of our client. Should you be seeking a new permanent position, temporary assignment, or contract you will find our staff professional and courteous and our interview process straight forward